How to use

Wash your hands thoroughly before using Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin), then gently cleanse the affected skin with a mild soap and pat dry. Apply a thin layer of cream with your fingertips once daily, preferably before bedtime. You can use a cotton swab or gauze to apply the cream instead. Read the label carefully and follow your doctor's instructions exactly.

If you apply too much of Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin), the cream may clot. If this happens, apply a thinner layer next time.

Use Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin) for the exact number of days prescribed, regardless of whether you see any improvements to your skin. It may take a long time before results are noticeable and your acne may appear worse at the beginning of treatment. However, this will improve over time. Talk to your doctor in case of severe skin irritation or if your acne has not improved after 8-12 weeks.

Overdose

Potential symptoms of a Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin) overdose include:

• Excessive redness of the skin
• Peeling
• Discomfort

If you think you have used too much of this medication, you should contact your local poison control center or the emergency medical services immediately. Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin) may be harmful when swallowed.

Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin), apply the dose as soon as you remember it.  If you are very close to the next scheduled dosage, skip the missed dose and take the next one.  Do not apply extra medication in order to make up for accidentally skipping one application.

Notes
Do not share Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin) with others, since they may have a problem that is not effectively treated by this medication.

You may use cosmetics in conjunction with Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin), but always clean skin toroughly before applying the cream.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C ) and keep away from light and moisture. KEEP THIS AND ALL MEDICATIONS OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.

Important note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of this medication is safe, appropriate or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this medication.

Precautions
Before using Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin), inform your doctor if you suffer from any allergies or eczema.

Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin) may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid exposure to sunlight and artificial UV rays, such as sunbeds and tanning booths, and make sure to wear an efficient sunscreen or protective clothing when out in the sun.

Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin) may also make your skin more sensitive to harsh weather, such as cold or rain.

Avoid contact with your eyes, mouth, nose and lips and wash the area thoroughly if accidental contact does occur. Do not use this medication on sunburned, chapped, dry or irritated skin or on wounds and areas affected with eczema.

Do not use this medication in combination with other skin products, without consulting your doctor first.

Drug Interactions
Inform your doctor before using Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin), if you are also taking any of the following medication, as they may make your skin more sensitive to natural and artificial sunlight:

• Diuretics (water pills) 
• Tetracycline (Sumycin, Panmycin, Robitet)
• Minocycline (Minocin)
• Doxycycline (Doryx, Vibramycin)
• Demeclocycline (Declomycin)
• Antibiotics, such as Ciprofloxacin (Cipro) and Ofloxacin (Floxin)
• Sulfa medicines (e.g. Bactrim, Septra, Cotrim and others)
• Chlorpromazine (Thorazine)
• Prochlorperazine (Compazine)
• Fluphenazine (Permitil, Prolixin)
• Promethazine (Phenergan, Promethegan)
• Perphenazine (Trilafon)
• Skin products that contain benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol or salicylic acid

This list is not complete and other medication may interact with Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin). Tell your doctor about all the prescription and over-the-counter medications you use. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products and medication prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using any new medication without telling your doctor first.

Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin) may cause the following common side effects during the first 2-4 weeks of treatment:

• Redness
• Dryness
• Itching
• Scaling
• Mild burning
• Worsening of acne
• A brief sensation of warmth or stinging immediately after application

The above side effects usually decrease with time. Notify your doctor promptly if any of them persist or get worse.

Tell your doctor straightaway if you experience any of the following more serious side effects:

• Blistering
• Crusting
• Severe burning or swelling of the skin
• Eye redness and watering (conjunctivitis)
• Swelling of the eyelid
• Skin discolouration

In very rare cases, Retin-A Cream (Tretinoin) may cause a serious allergic reaction. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• Rash
• Itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue or throat)
• Severe dizziness
• Trouble breathing

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any other side effects than the ones mentioned above.